How long does discomfort last in patients experiencing unstable angina compared to stable angina?

Patients experiencing unstable angina typically report discomfort that lasts more than 20 minutes. This duration of pain or discomfort is a key characteristic that distinguishes unstable angina from stable angina. In stable angina, discomfort usually occurs with exertion or stress and tends to resolve within a short physical activity or rest period, generally lasting less than 10 minutes.

Unstable angina, on the other hand, can occur at rest, can be triggered by minimal exertion, or may happen without any apparent reason, and the discomfort can persist far beyond the typical duration seen in stable angina. This is indicative of a more severe underlying issue, often related to coronary artery disease that requires urgent assessment and management due to the heightened risk of myocardial infarction. Awareness of the differences in the duration and nature of discomfort in these two conditions is vital for proper diagnosis and treatment.